How Corrugated is Recycled: The Repulping Process

When corrugated cardboard undergoes recycling, it goes through a process known as pulping. During this process, the cardboard is broken down into fibers that can be reused to create new cardboard products.

The extent to which corrugated cardboard is repulped varies depending on factors such as its quality, the recycling method employed, and the desired characteristics of the final product. Here’s a breakdown of the repulping process:

1. Collection and Sorting: Corrugated cardboard is gathered from recycling bins, commercial establishments, and industrial facilities. It’s sorted based on grade and quality, with contaminants like plastics and metals removed.

2. Pulping: The sorted cardboard is transported to a recycling facility, where it’s mixed with water and broken down into fibers using mechanical or chemical methods. The aim is to separate the cardboard into its constituent fibers for reuse.

3. Cleaning: The pulp undergoes screening to eliminate contaminants and debris. Further cleaning processes may be employed to purify the pulp.

4. Refining: The cleaned pulp may undergo refining to enhance its quality and strength. This can involve beating the pulp to break down fibers further and improve their properties.

5. Forming: The refined pulp is shaped into new cardboard sheets using a paper machine. Additional processes like drying and pressing may be applied to enhance strength.

6. Finishing: The finished cardboard sheets are cut and trimmed to the desired size and shape. They may undergo treatments like coating or printing before being shipped for use in various products.

The repulping process efficiently transforms corrugated cardboard into basic fibers for manufacturing new cardboard products.

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